JP6835723B2 - Soluble beverages with enhanced flavors and aromas - Google Patents

Description

Cross-references to related applications This application claims the interests of U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 594,041 filed January 9, 2015, which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. Incorporate the entire content of.

The present disclosure relates to a soluble beverage component and a sealed cartridge containing a serving of the soluble beverage component, the cartridge for making a beverage when a fluid is introduced into the cartridge. The cartridge can be configured for use with a single serve beverage machine.

Many beverages have a unique taste and aroma that is difficult to reproduce in a relatively simple form. An example of such a beverage is coffee. For regular coffee, water is pre-boiled in a coffee pot and the roasted and crushed coffee beans are brought into direct contact with this boiling water (standard amount is roasted and crushed per 100 ml of boiling water. Coffee beans are 10 g), and the coffee beans are boiled in boiling water for extraction or similarly extracted by using a percolator or the like. The resulting extract contains caffeine, tannic acid, sugars, fats, proteins and various aromatic components, as well as a coffee-specific aroma and a unique complex flavor including bitterness, astringency and sourness. ..

Attempts have been made to put soluble beverages, such as soluble coffee, into cartridges for use in single-serving beverage machines. However, powders form when transferring dry soluble coffee from one container to another. When introducing soluble coffee into a single serve cartridge, a lot of dusting occurs, so the cartridge cannot be sealed properly in many cases. In addition, dry soluble coffee materials are generally too fluid to perform efficient commercial processing and filling self-serving cartridges. Also, the soluble coffee in the self-serving cartridge can dissolve very quickly in water, which can clog the cartridge or self-serving equipment and prevent the production of uniform beverage products. is there.

Many aromas and flavors associated with coffee are extremely delicate and complex. In the case of conventional soluble coffee, the flavor and aroma of delicate coffee is often reduced or lost during processing and manufacturing methods. Coffee aromas are known to be extremely unstable. When coffee aromas are reduced, these aromas produce unwanted, unpleasant, non-coffee-like notes. This reduction substantially reduces the perceived quality of the product. For this reason, special care must be taken in the preparation and storage of flavoring ingredients, such as coffee aromas, so that the desired aroma components are enhanced or the unwanted components are reduced or eliminated.

Some embodiments are methods of producing a sweetened soluble beverage component, in which the soluble beverage, sweetener and coffee beans are mixed in a container to form a mixture and the mixture is stirred over a predetermined time. And in a method comprising removing the coffee beans from the mixture, the method relates to a method in which the sweetened soluble beverage component comprises the soluble beverage and the sweetener.

In some embodiments, the sweetener is sugar.

In some embodiments, the sweetener is granulated sugar.

In some embodiments, the soluble beverage is soluble coffee.

In some embodiments, the soluble coffee comprises powdered coffee beans.

In some embodiments, the coffee beans are uncrushed roasted coffee beans.

In some embodiments, the unmilled roasted coffee beans are unmilled roasted espresso beans.

In some embodiments, stirring the mixture comprises at least one of mixing, blending, tumbling and panning.

In some embodiments, removal of coffee beans from the mixture comprises filtering the mixture.

Some embodiments relate to adding at least one of a milk component, a spice, cocoa, a fruit powder and a flavoring component to the mixture.

Some embodiments relate to placing the sweetened soluble beverage ingredient in a self-serving cartridge.

Some embodiments are cartridges for making a serving of beverage, the cup comprising a lid, a bottom wall, and a side wall extending between the lid and the bottom wall. In a cartridge containing a cup of sweetened soluble beverage component placed in a cartridge, the sweetened soluble beverage component comprises a soluble beverage, a sweetener, and coffee bean-derived oil. The present invention relates to a cartridge in which oil derived from the coffee beans is added to the soluble beverage and the sweetener by mixing the soluble beverage and the sweetener with the coffee beans, and the coffee beans are removed after mixing.

In some embodiments, the sweetener is sugar.

In some embodiments, the coffee beans were removed from the sweetened soluble beverage component by filtration.

Some embodiments are sweetened soluble beverage components comprising a soluble beverage, a sweetener, and coffee bean-derived oil, the soluble beverage and a mixture of the sweetener and the coffee beans. The present invention relates to a sweetened soluble beverage component in which the coffee bean-derived oil is added to the soluble beverage and the sweetener, and the coffee beans are removed after mixing.

In some embodiments, the sweetener is sugar.

In some embodiments, the soluble beverage is soluble coffee.

In some embodiments, the coffee beans are uncrushed roasted coffee beans.

These aspects and benefits are more easily appreciated as the following detailed description is referenced in conjunction with the accompanying drawings to gain a deeper understanding of many of the aforementioned aspects and their associated benefits. Will come to be.

FIG. 1 is a process flow diagram showing an outline of an embodiment of a method for producing a sweetened soluble beverage component. FIG. 2 is a process flow diagram showing an outline of an embodiment of a method for producing a sweetened soluble coffee component. FIG. 3 is a process flow diagram showing an outline of an embodiment of a method for producing a sweetened soluble coffee component. FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a beverage cartridge according to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure.

The following description is provided to allow one of ordinary skill in the art to create and use one or more of the present embodiments. The comprehensive principles described herein can be applied to embodiments and applications that do not deviate from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, other than those detailed below. Furthermore, this embodiment is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments presented, and the broadest scope should be acknowledged that is consistent with the principles and features disclosed or suggested herein.

Terms as used herein, such as "approximate," "about," "almost," and "substantially," as used herein, are values, quantities, or properties described. Represents a value, quantity or property close to, which still performs the desired function or achieves the desired result. For example, the terms "approximately," "about," "almost," and "substantially" are within less than 10% of the stated amount, within less than 5%, within less than 1%. Can refer to quantities in the range of less than 0.1% and less than 0.01%. As another example, in certain embodiments, the terms "nearly parallel" and "substantially parallel" are only 15 ° or less, 10 ° or less, 5 ° or less, 3 ° or less from strict parallelism. Refers to a value, quantity or characteristic that deviates from 1, 1 ° or less, 0.1 ° or less, or other than that. Similarly, in certain embodiments, the terms "nearly vertical" and "substantially vertical" are only 15 ° or less, 10 ° or less, 5 ° or less, 3 ° or less, 1 Refers to values, quantities or characteristics that deviate by less than or equal to °, by less than 0.1 °, or otherwise.

Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a method for producing a soluble beverage ingredient having improved characteristics, such as improved taste and aroma, and a method for producing a soluble beverage ingredient having improved characteristics, eg, improved taste and aroma. , Is targeted. Soluble or "instant" beverages, especially soluble or "instant" beverages in single-serving cartridges, enable an efficient and convenient way for consumers to prepare beverages at home or in other environments. Maintaining the flavor and aroma of the original beverage in the soluble form of the beverage involves inherent difficulties. For example, introducing dry soluble coffee into a self-serving cartridge can result in an unacceptable amount of powder, which prevents efficient sealing of the cartridge. In addition, such soluble coffee in the cartridge can dissolve quickly and non-uniformly when water is introduced by a self-serving device. This can result in clogging of the cartridge or equipment and can result in the production of non-uniform beverage products.

In some embodiments of the present disclosure, the soluble beverage powder is mixed with a sweetener and unground roasted coffee beans. The resulting sweetened soluble beverage ingredient has enhanced flavor and aroma, and the amount of powdering is significantly lower, allowing this sweetened soluble beverage ingredient to be efficiently placed in a self-serving cartridge. The self-serving cartridge can then be properly sealed. We do not want to be bound by any particular theory, but when we mix sweeteners with unground coffee beans, the sweeteners remove the oil from the coffee beans, some of which then turn into soluble coffee. It is thought that it will be transferred. The resulting mixture is easy to handle and can be efficiently transferred and packaged. Also, oils derived from unground coffee beans can add higher content of caffeine and additional flavor notes and aromas to soluble beverages, thereby making more freshly brewed coffee. A close flavor and aroma is added to the soluble beverage. Oils derived from unground coffee beans can also reduce the solubility of soluble beverages, thereby allowing the soluble beverages to dissolve in a more controlled and uniform manner when mixed with the soluble beverages and liquids. Therefore, the sweetened soluble beverage ingredients can be used in self-serving beverage cartridges and equipment.

FIGS. 1 to 4 described below show exemplary embodiments using specific combinations and variations. However, the following description does not mean to limit the scope of the present embodiment including the amended form and the equal structure included in the purpose and scope of the appended claims. It should be understood that the details disclosed below are for illustration purposes only and that these details may vary without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Each exemplary embodiment is described in sequence below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the method for preparing the sweetened soluble beverage component described above. Referring to FIG. 1, according to an exemplary embodiment, the soluble beverage 101 is mixed with the sweetener 103 and the coffee beans 105. The resulting mixture is then stirred in container 107 for a predetermined time. The mixture is then applied to a filter 109 to remove the coffee beans 111. The obtained sweetened soluble beverage component 113 is retained.

FIG. 2 shows another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 2, powdered coffee 204 is added to soluble coffee 201 and mixed with flavoring 202, sugar 203 and unground coffee beans 205 in a mixer 207 to form a mixture. The mixture is stirred for a length of time and then the coffee beans 211 are removed using a paper filter 209. The sweetened soluble coffee component 213 is retained, and then the sweetened soluble coffee component 213 is placed in a self-serving cartridge 215.

FIG. 3 shows another exemplary embodiment. With reference to FIG. 3, soluble coffee 301 is mixed with vanilla flavoring 302, crystalline fructose 303 and unmilled roasted espresso beans 305 in a ribbon mixer 307 to form a mixture. The mixture is stirred for a length of time and then the coffee beans 311 are removed using a mesh filter 309. Retains the sweetened soluble coffee component 313 and adds powdered coffee 304. The mixture of the sweetened soluble coffee component 313 and the powdered coffee 304 is then placed in a self-serving cartridge 315. Beverages can be prepared by placing the self-serving cartridge in the self-serving beverage machine 317.

The sweeteners used in the methods described herein are not particularly limited, and are, for example, sucrose, fructose, corn syrup, crystalline fructose, dextrin, maltodextrose, maltdextrin, glycerin, treitol, erythritol, rebaugioside A. , Stevia, xylitol, arabitol, ribitol, sorbitol, mannitol, martitol, maltotriitol, maltotetritor, lactitol, reduced isomaltulose, reduced starch, cellac, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose, starch, chemical starch, carboxyl cellulose , Caragenan, cellulose acetate phthalate, cellulose acetate trimellitate, chitosan, corn syrup solids, dextrin, fatty alcohol, hydroxycellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose phthalate. , Polyethylene glycol or a combination thereof. In addition, sweeteners can have varying levels of graininess. For example, granulated sugar, bakery sugar, sanding sugar and the like can be used. In some embodiments, relatively highly granulated sweeteners are used.

In some embodiments, about half of the sweetener to be used is first introduced into the container, then the amount of soluble beverage to be used is introduced, and then the other half of the sweetener to be used is introduced. However, this embodiment is not so limited. In some embodiments, the soluble beverage and sweetener can be mixed first and then mixed over a length of time. Unground coffee beans can then be added and the resulting mixture can be mixed over a second length of time. The ratio of the sweetener to the soluble beverage is not particularly limited, for example, 1: 100, 1:50, 1:10, 1: 5, 1: 1, 2: 1, 3: 1, 4: 1, 5: 1. 5.5: 1, 6: 1, 6.5: 1, 7: 1, 7.5: 1, 8: 1, 9: 1, 10: 1, 15: 1, 20: 1, 50: 1. And 100: 1 ratio. In some embodiments, the ratio of sweetener to soluble beverage is from about 5: 1 to about 10: 1. In certain embodiments, the ratio of sweetener to soluble beverage is about 17: 3.

Any kind of agitation of a mixture of soluble beverages and sweeteners and unground coffee beans can be used. Some examples include mixing, blending, tumbling, panning, manual mixing, ribbon blending and the like. In some embodiments, the mixing process of one or both of the above is carried out for 10 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute, 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, 5 minutes, 6 minutes, 7 minutes, 8 minutes, 9 minutes. 10 minutes, 11 minutes, 12 minutes, 13 minutes, 14 minutes, 15 minutes, 16 minutes, 17 minutes, 18 minutes, 19 minutes, 20 minutes, 25 minutes, 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 50 minutes, 60 minutes, 2 hours It can be done for 3, 4 hours, 12 hours or more. In certain embodiments, one or both mixing processes are performed for 1-15 minutes.

Some embodiments relate to soluble beverage ingredients, including unextracted powdered coffee. Such powdered coffee can be added to the mixture, which can be done, for example, before or after (or both before and after) mixing the other ingredients with the unground coffee beans. In some embodiments, the powdered coffee is less than about 2000 microns in diameter, less than about 1500 microns in diameter, less than about 1000 microns in diameter, less than about 900 microns in diameter, less than about 800 microns in diameter, less than about 700 microns in diameter, about about 700 microns in diameter. Less than 600 microns, less than about 500 microns in diameter, less than about 450 microns in diameter, less than about 400 microns in diameter, less than about 350 microns in diameter, less than about 300 microns in diameter, less than about 250 microns in diameter, less than about 200 microns in diameter, about 150 microns in diameter It has an average particle size of less than, less than about 100 microns in diameter, or less than about 50 microns in diameter.

In some embodiments, the powdered coffee is less than about 2000 microns in diameter, less than about 1500 microns in diameter, less than about 1000 microns in diameter, less than about 900 microns in diameter, less than about 800 microns in diameter, less than about 700 microns in diameter, about about 700 microns in diameter. Less than 600 microns, less than about 500 microns in diameter, less than about 450 microns in diameter, less than about 400 microns in diameter, less than about 350 microns in diameter, less than about 300 microns in diameter, less than about 250 microns in diameter, less than about 200 microns in diameter, about 150 microns in diameter It has a median particle size of less than, less than about 100 microns in diameter, or less than about 50 microns in diameter.

In some embodiments, dry addition of powdered coffee to a dry coffee extract adds aroma, flavor complexity and volume to the finished bulk product. The addition of powdered coffee can be achieved by one or more of many different methods such as centrifuges, lightning mixers, ribbon blenders, PK blenders, sonic methods and the like. In some embodiments, other compounds can be added during this process, such as non-coffee oils, non-coffee aromas, coffee aromas, and the like. In some embodiments, the powdered coffee can be encapsulated in carbohydrates, soy products, dairy ingredients or other agents. One of the advantages of encapsulation is protection from deterioration due to environmental factors. In some embodiments, encapsulation can also alter the rate of dissolution of the coffee component, resulting in coffee aroma and flavor components from powdered or ground coffee at a time different from other components in the coffee product. It is released.

Coffee aroma is a volatile component of coffee that produces the characteristic aroma of coffee. In some embodiments, the coffee aroma can be delivered to the final beverage component in the form of a highly aromatized coffee concentrate. The aroma-added coffee concentrate is prepared by adding coffee aroma to the coffee concentrate. Methods of preparing coffee concentrates are well known to those skilled in the art.

In some embodiments, coffee aroma is added to the sweetened soluble beverage ingredient. Such coffee aromas can be in the form of natural coffee aroma components that are collected during the preparation of soluble coffee powder. In some embodiments, natural coffee aromas include, for example, highly volatile aroma components. The highly volatile aroma component means a component that condenses at a temperature of less than about 0 ° C. To recover the highly volatile aroma components, an inert carrier gas such as nitrogen gas, carbon dioxide gas or carbon dioxide pellets can be used to flush the volatile aroma components from the coffee during processing. The aroma-loaded carrier gas is then cooled to a temperature below about −40 ° C., sometimes to a low temperature of about -195 ° C., to condense the aroma components. This condensed aroma component is then collected. Suitable techniques for capturing coffee aromas are known to those of skill in the art.

In some embodiments, the inclusion of beverage ingredients can be used to optimize product function, particle size and / or create new product forms. Encapsulation can be performed with one or more products such as coffee, coffee extracts, coffee concentrates, dry powdered coffee, coffee oil or other oils, aromas, functional ingredients and the like. In addition, carbohydrates, soy products, dairy products, corn syrup, hydrophilic colloids, polymers, waxes, fats, vegetable oils, arabic gum, lecithin, sucrose ester, monoglycerides, diglycerides, pectin, K carbonate, K bicarbonate, Na carbonate, Na ₃ PO _{4, K} 3 PO _4, maltodextrin, glycerol, threitol, erythritol, xylitol, arabitol, ribitol, sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, maltotriitol, malto Te tri Torr, lactitol, reduced isomaltulose, reduced starch, Liploids, liposomes in sol gel, cellac, fat hydrolysates, ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, starch, chemical starch, alginate and alginate (eg sodium alginate), calcium caseinate, calcium polypectinate, carboxylcellulose, caragenan, cellulose Acetate phthalate, cellulose acetate trimellitate, chitosan, corn syrup solids, dextrin, fatty acids, fatty alcohols, gelatin, gellan gum, hydroxycellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxymethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl ethyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, hydroxypropyl Methyl cellulose phthalate, lipids, liposomes, low density polyethylene, monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, pectin, phospholipids, polyethylene glycol, polylactic acid polymers, polylactic acid-glycolic acid copolymers, polyvinylpyrrolidone, stearic acids and derivatives, xanthane and proteins, Encapsulation can also be done with one or more of zein, gluten or other agents for protection from environmental elements.

Also, at any time during processing, additional flavoring can be added to the soluble beverage, sweetener or sweetened soluble beverage ingredient. Non-limiting examples of flavoring include, for example, vanilla, chocolate, hazelnut, caramel, cinnamon, mint, eggnog, apple, apricot, aromatic bitters, banana, berry, blackberry, blueberry, celery, cherry, cranberry, strawberry. , Raspberry, Juniper Berry, Brandy, Caschassa, Carrot, Citrus, Lemon, Lime, Orange, Grapefruit, Tangerine, Coconut, Cola, Mentor, Gin, Ginger, Licoris, Hot, Milk, Nuts, Almonds, Macadamia Nuts, Peanuts, Pecan , Pistachio, walnut, peach, pear, pepper, pineapple, plum, kinine, lamb, white lamb, dark lamb, sangria, shellfish, crumb, tea, tea, green tea, tequila, tomato, top note, tropical, bell motte, dry Belmot, Sweet Belmot, Whiskey, Bourbon Whiskey, Irish Whiskey, Rye Whiskey, Scotch Whiskey, Canadian Whiskey, Red Pepper, Black Pepper, Seiyo Wasabi, Wasabi, Jalapeno Pepper, Chipo Tre Pepper Essential Oil, Concrete, Absolute, Resin, Resinoid, Balm , Tinki, soybean oil, coconut oil, palm oil, kernel oil, sunflower oil, peanut oil, almond oil, cocoa butter, amyris oil, angelica seed oil, angelica root oil, anis oil, yoshikusa oil, basil oil, taragon oil , Eucalyptus citriodora oil, eucalyptus oil, fennel oil, fur needle oil, galvanum oil, galvanum resin, geranium oil, grapefruit oil, guayak wood oil, guayak balsam, guayak balsam oil, helichrysum absolute, helichrysum oil, ginger oil, Iris Root Absolute, Iris Root Oil, Jasmine Absolute, Shove Oil, Blue Chamomile Oil, Roman Chamomile Oil, Carrot Seed Oil, Cascarilla Oil, Mint Oil, Calvi Oil, Rabdanum Oil, Rabdanum Absolute, Rabdanam Resin, Labandin Absolute, Labandine Oil, Lavender Absolute, Lavender Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Bursera penicillata (Lina Roe) Oil, Lithose Acbeba Oil, Bay Laurel Leaf Oil, Masis Oil, Majorum Oil, Mann Darin oil, massoirinde oil, mimosa absolute, ambrette seed oil, ambrette tincture, clarice oil, nutmeg oil, orange flower absolute, orange oil, oregano oil, palmarosa oil, palmarosa oil, palmarosa oil Oil, parsley leaf oil, parsley seed oil, clove seed oil, peppermint oil, pepper oil, piment oil, pine root oil, polley oil, rose absolute, rosewood oil, rose oil, rosemary oil, sage oil, Labangin, Spanish sage oil, sandalwood oil, celery seed oil, spike lavender oil, daiuikyo oil, stilax oil, manjugiku oil, pine needle oil, chanoki oil, television oil, thyme oil, trobalm, tonka absolute, tuberose absolute, vanilla extract Things, Violet Leaf Absolute, Bebana Oil, Vetiba Oil, Juniper Berry Oil, Wine Yeast Oil, Yomogi Oil, Winter Green Oil, Iran Iran Oil, Hisop Oil, Civet Absolute, Cinnamon Leaf Oil, Kay Skin Oil, etc. Types of food flavoring or edible substances or combinations thereof may be mentioned.

In some embodiments, the sweetened soluble beverage ingredient is placed in a single serve beverage cartridge. The single serve beverage cartridge can be configured for use in a single serve beverage machine, for example in an automatic single serve coffee brewer. The term "cartridge" as used herein is given in its usual idiomatic sense, and is not limited to, for example, cartridges, capsules, cups, sachets, discs. A thing (pack), a sheath-like thing (pod), and the like are mentioned.

With reference to FIG. 4, the cartridge 10 can include a cup 12, a lid 15 and a filter 18. In some embodiments, the cartridge does not have a filter. The cup 12 generally has a hollow structure, which has a bottom wall 13, a shoulder 16 and a side wall 14. The cartridge 10 can have a gradually tapered, substantially cylindrical shape, but other shapes can be used that do not deviate from the gist and / or scope of the present disclosure.

The cup can include a rim that extends outward. The lid 15 may be fixed, glued, or otherwise connected to an outwardly extending rim, or may be adjacent to the rim, thereby being sealed. The cartridge is formed. This seal can be an airtight seal, which reduces the ingress of air into the cartridge, thereby improving the freshness of the beverage ingredients. Fix the lid 15 to the cartridge using any suitable bonding or sealing technique and material, such as heat sealing, crimping, gluing, UV curing, application of ultrasonic or microwave energy (eg, sonic welding), etc. Or it can be glued.

In some embodiments, the cartridge can be vacuum sealed or pressurized. In some embodiments, the oxygen or atmosphere in the cartridge is replaced with nitrogen (or other nearly non-reactive gas). In certain other embodiments, the oxygen or atmosphere in the cartridge is replaced with a mixture of nitrogen and carbon dioxide. By substituting oxygen or air in the cartridge, for example, the shelf life of the cartridge can be extended and the risk of damage or deterioration of the contents of the cartridge can be reduced. In some embodiments, one or more parts of the cartridge (eg, cups and / or cups) so that the permeation of water vapor and / or oxygen between the beverage component and the external environment (eg, air) is restricted or otherwise controlled. Or a lid) is configured, which provides an acceptable shelf life. For example, in some cases, the lid 15 has a water vapor permeability of ^{about 0.050 g / m 2 / day or less (as measured by ASTM F-1249).} In certain embodiments, the lid 15 has an oxygen permeability of ^{about 0.500 cc / m 2 / day or less (as measured by ASTM D3985).} Those skilled in the art will recognize that such transmission is exemplary and therefore should not be construed as limiting. In some cases, the allowable shelf life is from about 6 months to about 12 months after cartridge assembly. However, shorter shelf life (eg, about 3 months) or longer shelf life (eg, about 18 months) can be applied, depending on the contents of the cartridge, and such shelf life is contemplated by the present disclosure. To.

Cartridges can be made from a cup or a single serve of beverage ingredients, such as instant coffee, tea, fruit juice, soft drinks or any other beverage that can be made by mixing fluid with one or more substantially soluble beverage ingredients. Can be included. Soluble terminology as used herein is given in its usual idiomatic sense and is readily soluble in, but not limited to, liquids, such as water or milk. Or a dispersed product.

In some embodiments, the beverage component comprises finely ground or powdered coffee, eg, "METHOD OF MAKING BEVERAGES WITH ENHANCED FLAVORS AND AROMAS", 2008. The entire content of this patent specification, including the finely ground or pulverized coffee described in US Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0009039, filed on July 9, as forming a part of this specification. To be used. For example, in some cases, instant beverage ingredients include coffee having a median particle size or average particle size of about 350 microns or less. In some embodiments, the beverage component comprises a mixture of dry coffee extract and finely ground coffee. In certain embodiments, the beverage component comprises lyophilized coffee. In some embodiments, the beverage component comprises a mixture of lyophilized coffee and finely ground coffee. In certain cases, the instant beverage component comprises particulate matter, such as granules of finely ground coffee.

The type and amount of beverage ingredients can be selected to provide a beverage with specific desired properties. For example, the amount of soluble beverage component 17 can be selected so that a predetermined beverage concentration is obtained. In some embodiments, the beverage ingredient can include, for example, coffee or tea, as well as dairy products, soybeans, sugar, artificial sweeteners, nutrients, flavoring or other ingredients.

Beverage ingredients can be provided in many forms within the cup. For example, in some embodiments, the beverage ingredients are generally loose and uncompressed. In other embodiments, the beverage ingredients are generally compressed and / or compacted.

To allow liquids (eg hot or cold water) to be introduced into the cartridge, the cup 12 and lid 15 are made of a liquid impermeable material that can be pierced or pierced by the piercing member of a single serve beverage machine. Can be done. For example, the cup 12 and lid 15 are from one or more of metal (eg aluminum) materials, paper-based materials, polymer (eg plastic, polyethylene, polyurethane, nylon) materials and / or biodegradable materials. It may be made. In some embodiments, the cup 12 and / or lid 15 is made of a flexible material. In certain cases, the cartridge lid 15 can be pierced or pierced by a piercing member. In such cases, the liquid can be injected or otherwise delivered into the cup 12 through the piercing member and / or the opening created therein, thereby forming a beverage in the cup 12. In other cases, the lid 15 can be made of a gas and / or water permeable material that allows a liquid such as water to pass through without the need to pierce the lid.

In some embodiments, introduction of the liquid into the cartridge facilitates mixing of the liquid with the beverage component. For example, a liquid can be introduced as pressurized vapor (eg, from about 0.5 bar to about 20 bar), which can collide with beverage components and / or cup 12 (eg bottom wall 13). This promotes mixing. In some embodiments, the liquid is injected into the cup 12 so that the liquid and the ready-to-eat beverage component are efficiently agitated or swirled, whereby the beverage particles can be more easily dispersed and / or dissolved. .. For example, in some such cases, the liquid is injected in a cyclone manner.

Generally, the liquid introduced into the cartridge is water, but almost any type of liquid can be used. For example, in some embodiments, the liquid is milk, which is, for example, for hot cocoa preparation. In other embodiments, the liquid is fruit juice. In some embodiments, the liquid is carbonated, for example for soft drink conditioning. In certain embodiments, the liquid is an alcohol, which is, for example, for shot or cocktail preparation. In some cases hot liquids have been introduced, for example for hot beverages. In other cases cold liquids have been introduced, for example for ice-cold beverages. The amount of liquid introduced may be predetermined or may be adjusted based on the desired beverage concentration.

In some embodiments, the cartridge is pierced by a first piercing member, a liquid is introduced into the cartridge, the liquid and the beverage component are at least partially mixed and / or at least the beverage component is added to the liquid. After partial dissolution, the beverage is ready to exit this cartridge. Therefore, in some cases, the cup 12 can be configured to provide a place for the liquid to exit the cartridge. For example, the bottom wall 13 can be configured such that the prepared beverage is ejected from the cartridge by piercing or piercing the bottom wall 13 with a piercing member. As the prepared beverage flows through a second piercing member for delivery to a cup or other beverage container (eg, through an outlet) and the beverage is consumed (ingested). The piercing member can be a hollow needle or a cannula-like element. In some embodiments, the prepared beverage does not flow through the piercing member but exits through a hole or opening formed by the piercing member. In certain embodiments, the piercing member pierces the approximate center of the bottom wall 13 (eg, the center of the radial body). In yet another embodiment, the cartridge may have one or more holes or openings in the bottom wall 13. In such embodiments, these one or more holes may be sealed by removable tabs or other covers, which may be stripped from the bottom wall 13 prior to use. it can. In yet another embodiment, the bottom wall 13 is composed of a gas and / or opaque material that allows the formed beverage to pass through without the need for penetration or removal of any tab or cover.

In a particular configuration, the components of the cartridge are composed of flexible material. For example, in some embodiments, the cup 12 exhibits sufficient flexibility and can be crushed or spread. Such a configuration can reduce, for example, the storage space occupied by the cartridge and reduce the likelihood of spoilage of air or other gas or otherwise degradation of the ready-to-eat beverage component. In some cases, the cup 12 is crushed around the instant beverage ingredient. In some cases, air or other gas is substantially exhausted from the cartridge. In some embodiments, the cup 12 is configured to spread as the liquid is introduced into the cartridge. In certain such cases, the cup 12 expands to its size and shape almost before it collapses.

In various embodiments, the cartridges described herein are made of biodegradable or otherwise "environmentally friendly" materials. The cartridges described herein can be configured for disposable use. The cartridges described herein may be compatible with one or more existing single-serving beverage machines or single-serving technology.

The following examples are provided for illustrative purposes only and are by no means intended to limit the scope of this embodiment.

Example 1
Preparation of Sweetened Soluble Coffee Ingredients In a ribbon mixer, 600 pounds of soluble coffee was mixed with 4200 pounds of sugar to form a mixture. First put 2100 pounds of sugar in a ribbon mixer and then 600 pounds of soluble coffee was added to this mixer. An additional 2100 pounds of sugar was then added to the mixture. The mixture was then mixed for about 4 minutes. Unmilled roasted espresso beans were then added to the mixture, which was then mixed again for about 3 minutes. The mixture was then passed through a mesh to remove the coffee beans, and the mixture was placed in a self-serving cartridge and sealed.

Example 2
Preparation of sweetened soluble coffee ingredients with vanilla flavor In a ribbon mixer, 600 pounds of soluble coffee was mixed with 4200 pounds of sugar and vanilla flavor powder to form a mixture. A ribbon mixer was first filled with 2100 pounds of sugar, then vanilla flavor powder, and then 600 pounds of soluble coffee was added to this mixer. 2100 pounds of sugar was then added to this mixture. The mixture was then mixed for about 4 minutes. Unmilled roasted espresso beans were then added to the mixture, which was then mixed again for about 3 minutes. The mixture was then passed through a mesh # 8 to remove the coffee beans, and the mixture was placed in a self-serving cartridge and sealed.

Example 3
Preparation of Sweetened Soluble Coffee Ingredients with Cocoa Flavor In a ribbon mixer, 600 pounds of soluble coffee is mixed with 4200 pounds of sugar and cocoa flavored powder to form a mixture. A ribbon mixer was first populated with 2100 pounds of sugar, then cocoa flavored powder, and then 600 pounds of soluble coffee was added to the mixer. An additional 2100 pounds of sugar is then added to this mixture. The mixture is then mixed for about 4 minutes. Unmilled roasted espresso beans are then added to the mixture, which is then mixed again for about 3 minutes. The mixture is then passed through a mesh # 8 to remove the coffee beans, and the mixture is placed in a self-serving cartridge, which is then sealed.

Example 4
Preparation of sweetened soluble cocoa ingredients In a ribbon mixer, 600 pounds of cocoa powder is mixed with 4200 pounds of sugar to form a mixture. First add 2100 pounds of sugar to the ribbon mixer, then 600 pounds of cocoa flavor powder. An additional 2100 pounds of sugar is then added to this mixture. The mixture is then mixed for about 4 minutes. Unmilled roasted espresso beans are then added to the mixture, which is then mixed again for about 3 minutes. The mixture is then passed through a mesh # 8 to remove the coffee beans, and the mixture is placed in a self-serving cartridge, which is then sealed.

Although specific embodiments relating to coffee have been described herein, the methods and compositions described herein describe many other types of beverages, such as chocolate-based products (eg, hot cocoa), teas, juices. And may contain granular materials or ingredients for making other beverages. In addition, although some embodiments of introducing a liquid into a cartridge have been disclosed, the introduction of other phases is also contemplated. For example, in some embodiments, a vapor or a mixture of vapor and liquid water is introduced into the cartridge. Further, although specific embodiments including beverage ingredients have been disclosed, the term "beverage ingredient" is not limited to a single ingredient. Instead, the beverage component can contain a single component or multiple components.

The wording of the condition (conditional language), for example, "can", "could", "may" or "may", in particular, is Unless otherwise stated, or unless otherwise interpreted in the context in which it is used, in general certain embodiments include certain features, elements and / or steps, while other embodiments contain them. Intended to indicate that it is not included. Therefore, the wording of such conditions is generally not intended to imply that features, elements and / or steps are at all necessary for one or more embodiments, nor are these. One or more logics for determining whether a feature, element and / or step is included in or should be performed in any particular embodiment, with or without user input or instruction. It is not intended to imply that the embodiments of.

Although specific embodiments and examples have been described herein, additional embodiments or allowances can be made by variously combining and / or modifying many aspects of the methods and devices presented and described herein. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such examples can be formed. Both modified and modified forms are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. A wide variety of designs and approaches are possible. None of the features, structures or steps disclosed herein are essential or essential.

Some embodiments have been described in connection with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that these drawings are not exact size. Distances, angles, etc. are merely examples and do not necessarily have an exact relationship with the actual dimensions and placement of the devices shown. It is possible to add, remove and / or reconfigure components. In addition, disclosure of all specific features, embodiments, methods, properties, properties, qualities, attributes, elements, etc. relating to the various embodiments herein is disclosed in all other implementations described herein. Can be used in the form. In addition, it will be appreciated that all the methods described herein can be performed using any device suitable for performing the described steps.

For the purposes of the present disclosure, specific aspects, advantages and novel features are described herein. It should be understood that not all of these benefits can be achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, the disclosure may be embodied or implemented in a manner that achieves one or a group of advantages taught herein, but other benefits that may be taught or suggested herein are not necessarily achieved. It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that this is not the case.

Claims (30)

A method of producing sweetened soluble beverage ingredients,
The step of mixing soluble beverages, sweeteners and unmilled coffee beans in a container to form a mixture,
A step of stirring the mixture over a predetermined time and
The step of removing the unground coffee beans from the mixture and
Including
The sweetened soluble beverage component comprises the soluble beverage, unmilled coffee bean-derived oil, and the sweetener.
Method. The sweetener contains sugar,
The method according to claim 1. The sweetener contains granulated sugar,
The method according to claim 1. The soluble beverage comprises soluble coffee.
The method according to claim 1. The soluble coffee comprises powdered coffee beans,
The method according to claim 4. The uncrushed coffee beans include uncrushed roasted coffee beans.
The method according to claim 1. The unground roasted coffee beans include unground roasted espresso beans.
The method according to claim 6. Stirring of the mixture comprises at least one of mixing, blending, tumbling and panning.
The method according to claim 1. The step of removing the unmilled coffee beans from the mixture comprises filtering the mixture.
The method according to claim 1. The sweetened soluble beverage component comprises an oil derived from unmilled coffee beans, and the oil derived from the unmilled coffee beans is said to be soluble prior to the step of removing the unmilled coffee beans from the mixture. It is given to the beverage and the sweetener.
The method according to claim 1. Further comprising adding to the mixture at least one of a milk component, a spice, cocoa, a fruit powder and a flavoring component.
The method according to claim 1. Further comprising the step of placing the sweetened soluble beverage ingredient in a self-serving cartridge.
The method according to claim 1. A cartridge for making a cup of beverage
A cup comprising a lid, a bottom wall, and a side wall extending between the lid and the bottom wall.
A cup of sweetened soluble beverage ingredient placed in the cartridge,
Including
The sweetened soluble beverage component comprises a soluble beverage, a sweetener, an oil derived from unground coffee beans, and was free of oil derived from ground coffee beans .
The oil derived from the uncrushed coffee beans is added to the soluble beverage and the sweetener by mixing the soluble beverage and the sweetener with the uncrushed coffee beans.
The unground coffee beans were removed after mixing,
cartridge. The sweetener contains sugar,
13. The cartridge according to claim 13. The sweetener contains granulated sugar,
13. The cartridge according to claim 13. The soluble beverage comprises soluble coffee.
13. The cartridge according to claim 13. The soluble coffee comprises powdered coffee beans,
16. The cartridge according to claim 16. The uncrushed coffee beans include uncrushed roasted coffee beans.
13. The cartridge according to claim 13. The unground roasted coffee beans include unground roasted espresso beans.
18. The cartridge according to claim 18. The unground coffee beans were removed from the sweetened soluble beverage component by filtration.
13. The cartridge according to claim 13. The sweetened soluble beverage component further comprises at least one of a milk component, a spice, cocoa, a fruit powder and a flavoring component.
13. The cartridge according to claim 13. And soluble drinks, and sweeteners, only contains the oil from unground coffee beans, and does not include the oil from ground coffee beans, a soluble beverage component that has been sweetened,
The oil derived from the uncrushed coffee beans is added to the soluble beverage and the sweetener by mixing the soluble beverage and the sweetener with the uncrushed coffee beans.
The unground coffee beans were removed after mixing,
A sweetened soluble beverage ingredient. The sweetener contains sugar,
22. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 22. The sweetener contains granulated sugar,
22. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 22. The soluble beverage comprises soluble coffee.
22. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 22. The soluble coffee comprises powdered coffee beans,
25. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 25. The uncrushed coffee beans include uncrushed roasted coffee beans.
22. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 22. The unground roasted coffee beans include unground roasted espresso beans.
The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 27. The unground coffee beans were removed from the sweetened soluble beverage component by filtration.
22. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 22. Further comprising at least one of milk components, spices, cocoa, fruit powder and flavoring components,
22. The sweetened soluble beverage ingredient according to claim 22.

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